KATY, Texas – Katy Independent School District announced on Thursday that students will get six homework-free nights this upcoming school year.
The district said the goal is to give them more family time.
“Family engagement is extremely important for the district,” explained Maria Dipetta, a spokesperson for Katy ISD.“Our superintendent heard many concerns from students and we're happy to announce it will be part of our new instructional calendar for this year."
Already listed in the 2017-2018 calendar, there are six Wednesdays blocked off for Family Night. Katy ISD said teachers will not assign homework those nights.
"I’m very excited and I know parents are too,” said Elida Cortes, whose youngest son attends Rylander Elementary and oldest will go to Cinco Ranch Junior High.
“It's going to be more time with the kids and a lot of parents- we work, and when we get home, it's like you know you're exhausted (and) then you have to do homework with your kids, so I think it's something great that they came up with,” said Cortes.
Dipetta said the district tested family night at a few campuses then expanded it.
“Superintendent Dr. Lance Hindt took time to meet with and listen to students and parents who expressed they would like to see less homework on some days,” said Dipetta.
The district said it has received positive reviews about Family Night and students we spoke with echoed the same thing.
“It's going to be better because we get to spend more time with our parents and family and we get more free time and play more,” said Ethan, Cortes’ son, who is going into the third grade.
"We do know that our hard working students they deserve this, they face academic demands every day,” said Dipetta.
The district will also have a full week off for Thanksgiving and school will end earlier.
